New NC Laws: Private School Guns and Revised Driving Regulations in December
New legislation set to take effect on December 1 in North Carolina encompasses significant changes regarding private school gun policies and revised driving regulations. These laws emerged from deliberations within the Republican-majority General Assembly and have faced various political challenges, including vetoes from Governor Josh Stein.
Private School Gun Regulations
One of the most notable changes is House Bill 193, which permits employees and volunteers at private schools to carry firearms and stun guns on school premises. To do so, they must meet specific criteria:
- Obtain written permission from the school’s board of trustees or administrative director.
- Possess a valid concealed handgun permit.
- Complete a designated training course.
Additionally, individuals attending religious services at schools linked to a place of worship are also allowed to carry firearms. Proponents of this bill referenced a tragic shooting at a religious school as a catalyst for the new regulation. Conversely, opponents, including Governor Stein, contend that allowing guns in schools compromises safety.
Iryna’s Law
Another legislation, known as Iryna’s Law, was enacted following the tragic stabbing of Iryna Zarutska in Charlotte in August. Governor Stein signed this law, which received some bipartisan support. The law compels law enforcement agencies to amend their protocols due to the necessary funding adjustments. For instance, Alamance County Sheriff Terry Johnson announced a significant policy shift: his department will cease accepting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detainees. He cited changes concerning pretrial release and electronic monitoring as contributing factors affecting the management of detainees.
Revised Driving Regulations
New driving regulations introduced in Senate Bill 391 also take effect on December 1. Key components include:
- A ban on heavy trucks weighing 26,001 pounds or more from using the left-most lane of highways with six or more lanes, with specific exceptions for entering, exiting, or passing another vehicle.
- A requirement for drivers with tinted windows to lower the window on the side from which a police officer approaches a vehicle.
These changes highlight North Carolina’s ongoing efforts to enhance public safety and may affect a broad range of citizens and institutions across the state.
Conclusion
As North Carolina prepares for these new laws, the implications for schools, law enforcement, and drivers are significant. An exhaustive list of additional regulations coming into force on December 1 is available for interested parties to review.
